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Since
I learned about the spring-back bookbinding structure a couple years
ago I knew that I had found what I had been looking for. The spring-back
is a structure that allows for the pages in a book to open completely
flat while open. Unlike other structures that can achieve this feat as
well, a spring-back bound book doesn't skimp on protective spine linings
and other structural concerns to make this happen. While the method
employed to make this happen can apply undue stress on the joints, as
compared to other binding structures, it can be overcome with small
adjustments to the historical method. Now that I have a greater
understanding of the spring-back I am continuing to test various
different materials for use in the joints, the spine linings
(clowthings) even the sewing support materials. While my attempts as of
yet have not yielded any discoveries I am confident that I have started
to narrow down the possibilities and I am excited that the fruits of
this lab…

I have always had a tendency to become introspective when the days
shorten and fall bleeds into winter. I've been thinking about how I came
to book binding in the first place and how I ended up with degrees in
photography instead. Physicality, permanence, a fleeting moment
captured. At the time these were the things that attracted me to
photography but I couldn't explain that besides blindly referencing to
'the very essence of photography'. The time I spent in the darkroom,
light, time, chemistry; resulting in a physical manifestation that was
precious. But it was more, it was the very first time I could speak and
feel heard. When I speak out loud I mince my words, stumble, I get
anxious and go blank. Photography was the first time I had a language I
could command with authority.
I
remember when I was young, warm bright sunny days, sitting in front of a
reproduction baroque bookshelf with claw and ball feet and glass
paneled doors. This was my favorite pi…